1% annual chance flood zone with base flood elevations determined
Zone AE is the most common high-risk flood zone designation. FEMA classifies these areas as having a 1% annual chance of flooding (the "100-year floodplain"), which translates to a 26% chance of flooding over a 30-year mortgage. However, many flood experts note that climate change is increasing flood frequency faster than FEMA maps are updated, so actual risk in many AE zones now exceeds the 1% threshold.
FEMA determines Base Flood Elevations (BFEs) for Zone AE areas, which indicate the height floodwaters are expected to reach during a 100-year flood event. These BFEs are critical for determining building requirements and insurance rates.
Zone AE replaced the older numbered A zones (A1-A30) on newer flood maps. If your property was previously in an A-numbered zone, it is now likely classified as AE.
Flood insurance is required for properties in Zone AE with federally backed mortgages. This is a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).
Yes — Base Flood Elevations are determined in Zone AE. Your property's elevation relative to the BFE significantly affects your insurance premium.
Enter your address to see if your property is in Zone AE